Essex prison now targets contraband 'throw-overs'

Police have started a clampdown on people throwing contraband items such as drugs or mobile phones over the wall of an Essex prison.

Operation Skewbald is designed to tackle the problem of "throw-overs" at Chelmsford jail.

A police spokesman said the supply of such items often led to violence, disorder or disciplinary problems among inmates.

Mobile phones were often used to plan crimes outside prison, he added.

"People responsible for 'throw overs' need to be aware that they are likely to be joining their friends and relatives on the inside," the officer said.

The Prison Service added: "Anyone who tries to break the law by seeking to bring drugs or mobile phones into prison should be aware of the very serious risks that they are taking."